Michael J. Vertucci

Michael Joseph Vertucci, 67, of Elizabethtown, PA, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, after a courageous battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Known for his dedication to faith, family and football, Michael was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, and teacher who left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His intensity, determination, and wit defined his career and his relationships, and his signature “Coachisms” will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Michael began his coaching career as an assistant at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and later served as a defensive coordinator at Middletown High School. The majority of his career — and his heart — were dedicated to Manheim Township High School, where he served as head football coach and a physical education teacher. He finished his coaching career with immense pride, coaching his son Michael and the Elizabethtown Bears, creating treasured memories that defined his legacy.

Known for his memorable one-liners and unwavering commitment, Coach Vertucci was more than a teacher; he was a mentor and role model who guided countless young people with his life’s three pillars: faith, family, and football.

Outside of coaching, Michael cherished every moment with his family. He was the adoring husband of 39 years to Beth Ann Vertucci and a loving father to Mary Theresa Hamilton (Brett) of Mount Pleasant, SC, Anne Marie Long (Joshua) of Charleston, SC, Angela Rose Engle (Dylan) of Huger, SC, and Michael Anthony Vertucci of Mount Pleasant, SC. His grandchildren — William, Matthew, John, Andrew, Magdalene, and Joshua — were his pride and joy, and he delighted in family visits to South Carolina, where they made countless memories together.

Michael was also a loyal Penn State fan, holding season tickets and spending many memorable Saturdays cheering for the Nittany Lions. Some of his happiest days included attending football games or embarking on fishing trips with his son, brothers-in-law, and nephews.

Michael is survived by his mother, Mary Vertucci, and his sisters, Rose Oropallo (Tim), Therese Franscisco (Don), and Nicki Howe (Kevin), along with many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Alfred Vertucci, and his mother- and father-in-law, Theresa and Maurice Cusatis.

A Christian funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 16, at St. Peter Catholic Church, 904 Mill Road, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Visitation will be held prior to the mass from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the church. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Michael’s memory to St. Peter Catholic Church at the address above or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.StJude.org

Michael will be remembered as “Coach” — a man whose passion for football, dedication to his players, and love for his family shaped his life and legacy. His courage, humor, and wisdom will live on in those he mentored, and he will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.